# Pass BSA beginner test

Part of the Second Class guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://scouting.university/scouts-bsa/ranks/second-class/guide/index.md)

*5. Aquatics*

> **5b.** Demonstrate your ability to pass the BSA beginner test: Jump feet first into water over your head in depth, level off and swim 25 feet on the surface, stop, turn sharply, resume swimming, then return to your starting place.

The BSA beginner test demonstrates that you can enter deep water calmly, orient your body horizontally, swim a measured distance on the surface, make an intentional turn, and return to safety without touching bottom or panicking.

## The Test Sequence Step-by-Step

### Jump Feetfirst into Deep Water
- Stand on the edge of the dock or poolside where the water is over your head (ensure the bottom is free of submerged hazards).
- Keep the entry height low (no more than 3 feet above the water surface).
- Bend slightly at the knees and leap forward feetfirst into the water.
- Keep your feet together and your body upright as you enter the water. Do not dive headfirst.

### Level Off
- Allow your natural buoyancy to bring you back to the surface.
- As your head clears the water, tilt your chest forward and kick your legs to transition smoothly into a horizontal swimming position on the surface.
- Avoid touching the side of the pool or dock.

### Swim 25 Feet
- Swim steadily along the surface for 25 feet in a straight line.
- You may use any stroke you are comfortable with (such as the crawl/freestyle, breaststroke, sidestroke, or dog paddle), keeping your head up if needed to see your direction.

### Stop and Turn Sharply
- Stop forward swimming and allow your body to come upright or tread water briefly.
- Rotate your head and shoulders in the direction you want to turn (a full 180-degree reversal).
- Sweep your arms sideways in the water to turn your body around sharply.

### Resume Swimming and Return to Start
- Lean your upper body forward, kick to level off again on the surface, and swim the remaining 25 feet back to your starting place (completing 50 feet total).
- Finish the test without grasping the wall, touching the bottom, or needing assistance.

> **Tip**
>
> If you feel tired or unsteady during the turn, remember that stopping to turn does not mean touching the wall or standing on the bottom. Keep your lungs filled with air to maintain natural buoyancy, sweep your hands gently under the surface to pivot, and push forward into your return stroke.

> **Tip**
>
> The beginner test must be administered under the direct supervision of a certified lifeguard or aquatics instructor in accordance with Safe Swim Defense.

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